In the scope of the study are rechargeable electrochemical batteries with a primary focus on 'industrial batteries' according to the definitions of the Battery Directive (2006/66/EC), i.e. any battery designed for exclusively industrial or professional uses or used in any type of electric vehicle.
About the Ecodesign Directive
Sustainable industrial policy aims in particular at developing a policy to foster environmental and energy efficient products in the internal market. The Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC is the cornerstone of this approach. It establishes a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for energy-related products with the aim of ensuring the free movement of those products within the internal market. Directive 2009/125/EC repealed the original Directive 2005/32/EC for the setting of ecodesign requirements for energy-using products. It prevents disparate national legislations on the environmental performance of these products from becoming obstacles to the intra-EU trade and contributes to sustainable development by increasing energy efficiency and the level of protection of the environment, taking into account the whole life cycle cost.
The Ecodesign directive itself does not set binding requirements on products: it provides a framework (rules and criteria) for setting such requirements through implementing measures. It is also possible to introduce information requirements for components and sub-assemblies. The Commission prepares implementing measures only for products which have significant sales and trade in the EU, a significant environmental impact and potential for improvement. .
Europe on the Move
The Communication “Europe on the Move: Sustainable Mobility for Europe: safe, connected and clean” adopted on 17th May 2018 included in annex a Strategic Action Plan on Batteries. In this plan, the Commission commits to launching a study on the key determining factors for the production of safe and sustainable ('green') batteries. On that basis, the Commission plans to put forward battery sustainability “design and use” requirements for all batteries to comply with when placed on the EU internal market. In addition, the Commission has committed to supporting a sustainable battery value chain as a key driver for EU competitiveness.